A growing number of Australian degree-holders are rethinking the uni pathway, with new research showing many would seriously consider going down the trade route instead.
According to a global survey from MoneySuperMarket, 47 per cent of Australian graduates say they’d choose a trade skill over a university degree if they were starting their career again.
Independence and hands-on work driving the shift
The biggest drawcard? Independence.
The study found the most common reason for wanting to switch was the opportunity to be your own boss, followed closely by the appeal of more practical, hands-on work.
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Earning potential over time also ranked highly, suggesting many see trades as not just a lifestyle shift, but a financially viable one too.
There’s also a trend in who’s most likely to reconsider their path. Those already working in IT, education and healthcare roles were among the most open to retraining — pointing to a broader rethink happening across traditionally degree-heavy industries.
A shift in how careers are viewed
While university has long been seen as the default option, these numbers suggest attitudes are changing.
Trades are increasingly being recognised as offering stable, flexible and often well-paying career paths, particularly for those who prefer practical work over office-based roles.
For many, the idea of building something tangible — or running their own business — is becoming more appealing than climbing a traditional corporate ladder.
A global trend, but strong locally
The Australian figures sit just below the global average, with around half of degree-holders worldwide saying they’d make the switch if given the chance.
Other countries showed even stronger sentiment, with higher interest in places like New Zealand and South Africa.
Globally, electrical work came out as the most popular trade people would consider retraining in, followed by painting and decorating, and mechanical roles.
While the research comes from a global dataset, the local takeaway is clear — in Australia, the appeal of trades is growing, and for many graduates, it’s a path they’d seriously consider if they had another shot.
